Actually it is my fault. I made the mistake of saying Copahee on a public forum, mix in working for 4 years to promote kayak fishing as a sport and we get spooky fish in the easy to reach areas.
It was more than the fishing pressure that made them this spooky
We fish pretty heavy here around Daniel Island and yes the reds scare pretty easy but not like Copahee sound even in areas with heavy boat traffic/anglers its not like this
Even with Too Busy on Saturday and us on Sunday its a big area and none to very little regular boat fisherman
There was a steady barometer; incoming/high tide was perfect weather great water cleaner than around Daniel Island
Capt Dave
Redfishville has been beat up and most of us have had a part in giving it up as a good spot to fish. I mean we even held the first 2 HOW Tourneys there. There has been a big influx of cooler fillers fishing in there lately. Even back 7 years ago when I first learned of the ville, there were still a good number of guys fishing there, I don’t think as much, but the fish weren’t spooky at all, now they are. Who knows… maybe Flipper has been reading our posts and has been munching down on reds… I have noticed that Paradise is starting to get tougher to fish than it used to be 2 years ago. More kayaks will mean more pressure. Between the guides, us and flipper those fish are just getting smarter or are looking for new digs… I know a few spots I have only told one or two people about and I can always find fish there. I never see anyone out there fishing and the fish are pretty ready to eat every time I drop a line in there.
I fish well north of Mount Pleasant and had never seen another kayak fishing until this summer. There were three in my “secret” spot last time. I don’t mind, though. It was either going to be three kayaks or three Action Crafts. I’m glad the sport continues to grow.
I think you guys did good to introduce new folks to Redfishville…it was my first kayak fishing experience and loved it. Nice, quiet place - perfect for the beginner…lots of firsts for me there (redfish, trout, etc) and good memories fishing with friends. I think it should be required for all kayak anglers to do the “Copahee Stomp” at least once!
Being a “ville” resident I would chime in that the last few years the bait fish have been pretty plentiful. Red’s have been getting pretty spooked, and this year they are really staying in the heavy grass looking like top feeders. which, by the way is cool to watch. Usually picks up in the fall when the bait fish get scarce. No blame to anyone, it’s a group effort.
Saving grace is, if you get a hookup, it is usually a freight train. The one or two hookups you get are fighting are way bigger than a few years ago. A trade off to be sure, but well worth it in my opinion.
Tight lines to all! You know where I’ll be fishing.
